Generation systems with an export capacity of between 15 kW and 100 kW are typically installed on large homes or small businesses. They can have a significant impact on the local network surrounding the installation, particularly the power quality of other connected customers.
It is essential to ensure the system operates in a way that is not detrimental to other connections in the area. To export more than 15kW to our network, you must have a three-phase electrical connection and provide a balanced output. The difference in export capacity between any two phases must not exceed 5kW.
These guidelines are for distributed generation systems that connect to our network via an inverter. If you want to connect a system to our network without an inverter, please talk to us. This application must be completed for any connection that can export power to our network, even if you don’t intend to use that functionality immediately.
Applying
Step 1 - select your system
If your distributed generator connects to our LV network via an inverter, the inverter must conform to the relevant standard, AS/NZS 4777.2, which you can purchase and download from Standards NZ(external link) or view for free at your public library.
While the AS/NZS 4777 suite of standards has been created with solar powered systems in mind, they can be applied to other inverter-based systems. Some of the protection requirements may also be applicable to non-inverter-based systems; however, we will advise when that is the case. If you intend to connect to our network at a voltage exceeding 400V, please get in touch with us now.
You can speed up the processing of your application to connect to our network by using a distributed generation inverter that conforms to the latest AS/NZS4777.2 standard and is pre-approved by Orion. View our list of approved inverters
Declaration of Conformity
It’s important that the inverter you are intending to install complies with the AS/NZS 4777 standard(external link). If your proposed inverter is not on our list of currently compliant inverters you will need to provide a copy of the Supplier’s AS/NZS 4777.2 Declaration of Conformity.
The Declaration of Conformity proves that the inverter has been type-tested as complying with all relevant parts of AS/NZS 4777 by a laboratory with accreditation issued or recognised by International Accreditation New Zealand.
Step 2 - contact your electricity retailer
You must discuss your intended distributed generation installation with your current or proposed electricity retailer, as any surplus energy that you generate can be sold to them.
Metering
You are required to have import/export metering, capable of measuring exported energy from the generator into our network, even if this seems unlikely. Your electricity retailer can arrange this for you.
Your retailer will advise of any rental charge for the meter. You may also be charged a tariff/meter change fee, depending on your location and your existing metering.
Step 3 - apply online
You will need to complete the online application form and submit it, with all the detailed information requested in the form. When submitting your application you will be required to pay an application fee (fees available from our Orion associated charges schedule). Your application will not be available for processing until payment of the application fee has been successfully received.
Step 4 - connection of generation
Once we have approved your application and your system has been installed, you are required to provide a copy of your Code of Compliance (COC) and a copy of the Record of Inspection (ROI) within ten working days.
You must not energise your generation system until Orion has acknowledged receipt of these documents.
Ready to apply? Apply now through Orion online services(external link) - Connect your generation
If we decline your application
If we decline your application we will detail our reasons and the steps you can take to ensure your application will be successful if you choose to make a new application.
If you disagree with our decision, a dispute resolution process is provided in Schedule 6.3 of the Code(external link)